In this episode, Olivia Torrington ‘27 and Leo Silverman ‘27 analyze the composition and impact of the 2002 documentary photograph titled Untitled (1), taken in China by Chinese photographer Ming Zhou. Through intricate visual analysis, we explore both the overt and obscure stylistic choices Zhou employs to portray a narrative of oppression and compliance in China. We contextualize this documentary image using historical information and relevant sources on the complexities of Mao Zedong’s historic rule in China. Through understanding the lasting impact of communism and oppression left by former Chinese leader Mao Zedong, we dissect Zhou’s characterization of modern Chinese society and strive to understand how past and current Chinese policy remain interconnected. We discuss the visual and metaphorical contrasts Zhou presents in his image through compositional elements and the parallels they draw. Overall, we analyze the ability of Untitled (1) to truthfully document a scene as well as the intricacies of Chinese society that have led to that point.

Click here for a transcription and bibliography as well as images of the works discussed in today's episode.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This podcast is part of the Crop and Click series featuring student research on documentary photography from our collection. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for a portfolio of all the works discussed in the series.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Hosted and produced by Olivia Torrington and Leo Silverman. Cover art by Lucy Sherman '23.